3 Best Local Clean Protein Powders in NZ for 2024
- Happy Kitchen
- Oct 11, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Oct 14, 2024
Disclaimer: This blog post is not sponsored and is not affiliated with any of the brands mentioned. The brands listed are amongst our favourites, based on personal use and research. We've found them to be reliable, cost-effective, locally sourced, and providers of high quality protein powder products, and thus the best products in our opinion.
Contents
What is Protein Powder?
Simply put, protein powder is a concentrated source of - yep - protein! Protein is a macronutrient that plays a huge role in building and repairing muscles, supporting immune function, and keeping your body running smoothly. Whether you're hitting the gym or just trying to maintain a balanced diet, getting enough protein is key for staying at your best . That's where protein powder can really help.
Think of protein as the building blocks of your body. It’s made up of amino acids, which your muscles, tissues, and organs rely on for repair and function. Sure, you can get protein from foods like meat, eggs, and beans etc, but sometimes it’s tough to meet your daily needs/goals — especially if you’re active, working on building muscle, or managing your weight. That’s why protein powder is so effective - it's convenient and quick, and an easy way to get the protein you need!
Who is Protein Powder for?
The old idea that protein powder was only for the hardcore bodybuilders has long changed. Nowadays it's not just athletes - people with all kinds of lifestyles are using protein powder, and especially those with busy schedules.
Some brands take it a step further by adding functional ingredients like collagen for joint health or adaptogens for stress relief. So, protein powder isn't just about building muscle anymore - it's about supporting your overall wellness.
What is 'clean' Protein and Why is Choosing a Clean NZ Protein Product so Important?
When we talk about clean protein powder, we’re referring to products made with high-quality, natural ingredients right here in NZ - without all the unnecssary extras. A clean protein powder is usually free from:
Artificial sweeteners (e.g aspartame or sucralose)
Preservatives and unnecessary fillers
GMOs (genetically modified organisms)
Hormones or antibiotics (especially in whey or animal-based proteins)
Artificial flavors or colors
In other words, a clean protein powder is as close to the natural source as possible, with minimal processing and no hidden chemicals. Since most people take protein powder to support their health or fitness goals, the last thing they want is to load up on additives that can do more harm than good, or cause unintended effects. The challenge? With so many products out there, it's easy to end up with one that contains things you don't want.
So, how do you spot a clean protein powder? Start by checking the label! For clean lean protein powder, look for terms like organic or grass-fed, simple ingredients, and avoid long lists of additives you can’t pronounce. The simpler, the better. Brands that prioritise transparency will also clearly explain where their protein comes from and how it's processed, making if easier for you to make a healthier choice. The brands/products we've listed below are the best because they meet the above criteria and have been providing fantastic, clean protein powder to NZ for years now.
What are the Different Types of Protein Powder on the NZ Market?
The most common types of protein powder you’ll come across are:
Whey protein: A fast-digesting option that's perfect for post-workout recovery.
Casein protein: A slower-digesting protein that’s great for sustained muscle repair, especially overnight.
Plant-based protein: Ideal for vegans or those with dairy allergies, with options like pea, hemp, or rice protein.
For beginners, we usually recommend starting with whey protein. It's versatile and works well for a wide range of goals, from building muscle to supporting recovery. However if you're lactose intolerant or vegan, plant-based proteins like pea protein are excellent alternatives.
One thing to keep in mind: the most expensive or cheapest protein powder isn't necessarily the best or worst choice. It pays to do some research and find what suits your needs. We also strongly recommend choosing locally sourced protein - New Zealand is known for it's high standards when it comes to clean, quality products. Our local companies often have better control over their ingredients, ensuring you're getting a trusthworthy product.
The Best 3 Local Clean Protein Powder Brands in NZ
Nothing Naughty
Nothing Naughty is located in the mighty Tirau and has a history manufacturing for larger labels - so they know the game. They decided to provide their own products focusing on healthier snack alternatives and affordable price points so they're amongst the best for a reason.
Nothing Naughty uses natural fruit extract sweeteners with NZ grass-fed whey protein. They also provide their protein in cool glass jars to style up your kitchen, along with refill paper bags. They have a bunch of flavours ranging from vanilla to chocolate, strawberry, caramel etc. With hundreds of five star reviews for most of their products, Nothing Naughty is trusted by many and their strong focus on clean products shines through.
Prices:
Premium NZ Whey Protein 1kg with jar - $49.95
Premium Pea Protein 1kg with jar - $49.95
Note this is just a sample of their product range for the purposes of comparison. Check out their website for more.
Reactiv Supplements
Reactiv Supplements has been going strong since 2003 and have cemented themselves as one of the best clean protein providers in NZ. Their website provides fantastic advice and information on the various protein powders, how to use them and what they're comprised of. The owner, Mike, knows his stuff and his strong focus on clean and high quality products is evident. Mike credits clean supplements in providing him a 'healthy base to train harder and live stronger'.
Their whey protein powders use natural stevia and a 100% ultra filtration whey protein concentrate to maintain nutrition properties. They're very transparent about their manufacturing process and stand strong on their ethos of being local NZ and pure.
Prices:
Pure NZ Whey 1.11kg - $64.80
Pure Premium Pea Isolate 1.11kg - $44.80
Note this is just a sample of their product range for the purposes of comparison. Check out their website for more.
Reactiv has a whole sweep of other products so it's worth checking out their website for the full range, including various types of whey protein, plant-based protein and casein protein.
Go Good
Go Good prides themselves on 'harvesting and processing our products in the most honest and natural way possible', and they hold true to this statement in the best way. They have a strong focus in only using ingredients that are traceable, tested, and sustainable. Their focus on quality and clean products shows through, with their range having thousands of positive reviews.
Their whey protein uses natural sweetener thaumatin, non-GMO protein concentrate, and their chocolate flavour makes use of organic cacao powder. They source their whey locally, and use plastic-free packaging in their products.
Prices:
Note this is just a sample of their product range for the purposes of comparison. Check out their website for more.
If we missed any of your favourite brands, flick us a message and we'll happily check them out!
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